I was apprehensive of so many sea days, however; after the long tour days, which were hot and humid, I was quite appreciative of those days. Well balanced between tour and sea days. Lot's to keep one's interest on the ship.
Embarkation
3 out of 5
Was irritated to know that we had to stand in a second line to get 2 copies of our passports, even thought we'd brought them with us, just because they weren't on the right size paper. Most irritating.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
The main dining room always had excellent choices, the Tuscan Grille never disappoints and Qusine is always a delectable experience. However, the wine choices on the Drink package leave a lot to be desired. Not one Zinfandel, my wine of choice, and only one that didn't leave a dreadful after taste. So, they need to do better on a $1,000 + cost for a beverage package. Upgrading to the premium does not provide premium wines either, so that is not a worthy option.
Onboard Activities
3 out of 5
Fitness center was a bit aggressive. Always before I've enjoyed the morning stretch, but these sessions were geared more to the 20 something crowd or the jocks among us. The massage was good.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
Given the ships size, the entertainment was excellent.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
This ship's service was exceptional on all levels. I actually complimented Captain Alex, because his treatment of staff is a direct reflection of how passengers get treated. Compared to the Summit last fall, whose Captain was a slob and disrespectful, reflected on the quality of service we received. It definitely comes down to the Captain.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
The remodel was beautiful, the layout and design left a few questions, but overall a well done redo. A few problems were being worked out, as is to be expected when fresh out of dry dock.
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
IT was comfortable, but I must say there are a few awkward things that can lead to complications. For instance, having the closet next to front door permits one to get hit by the bathroom door if someone else opens it while the other is in front of the closet. Also, having the drawers and cupboards next to the bathroom door causes complications when the safe is being accessed. Those glass cupboard doors could cause someone to hit and cut their head for people who leave it open while bending down to pick up something dropped. My husband did that several times. Then there was the shower door, which they attempted to fix to no avail. It leaks all over the bathroom floor causing a slippery situation, a wet foot and the use of clean towels to mop up. I assume they will find a solution.
Ship tip
Enjoy all that is offered. It's a small intimate ship, you'll know everyone within days.
Having been to Hong Kong multiple times, we know there is so much to do, it's easy to navigate on your own. No excursion necessary, but for first timer's one may feel more comfortable doing a hop on hop off bus to get one's bearings.
Private Excursion. Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site inscription: 1994, and no wonder. Such beauty and peace sailing on the Bay and visiting the caves. Delightful day.
Private Excursion. First off, having to travel 2 hours in each direction is painful and disheartening. Having guides who don't speak very good English and flirt excessively with one person in the tour is insulting. No reflection on the ship of course, but this is not the way to see Thailand. The following day's tour to Pattaya was equally discouraging but only a 45 minute drive each way. I believe a land tour may be the way to see Thailand, not off a ship.
Having been several times, this is a city one can easily maneuver on one's own. Delightful opportunities abound. The skyline is spectacular. Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, the Singapore Flyer, China Town, Raffles, Massages, the Quay's, nothing disappoints. And it is such a clean city, I'm never sorry to return. All that said, it is pricey.
Easy, Breezy. And the big tip is this: Don't take the private taxi right outside, walk a short distance past the tour buses, to catch a city cab. Our ride to our hotel was $11 SNG vs. the $40 you will pay with the private ones. Also, if you are traveling with just a carry on, you can walk (a bit far) to the MRT stop and see the city. Well developed Mass Transit and easy to navigate. We used it exclusively during our extra days there.
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